To help ease anxieties you may want to consider this advice on how to handle report cards.

• DO review the report card in private and decide what you want your child to focus on before talking to your child.

• DO start with any positives. Let your child talk about any of his or her successes

• DON'T yell in anger. Even if the report card is not good, stay calm. Your child will not hear your message if you are yelling.

• DO go over trouble spots and ask what happened. Let your child respond, and then develop a plan together.

• DO celebrate a good report card.

• Do something with your child, like getting an ice cream or a new book,etc.

• DON'T humiliate a sibling whose grades may not be as good, by comparing your children.

• DO ask about school regularly, and feel free to call or visit. Checking in keeps you from being surprised by report cards. Your child's Guidance Counselor is able to set up a team conference with your child's teachers to address any concerns you may have.

• DO tell your child that school is important.

We all want your child to be successful. Together we can do wonders for your child.